“Pharaoh’s chariots and his army He has cast into the sea.” Ex 15:4 NKJV
For four hundred years Pharaoh had enslaved Israel. Then just when they thought they’d escaped him, he showed up again at the Red Sea. And that’s when God intervened, causing them to sing, “Pharaoh’s chariots and his army He has cast into the sea.” And God wants to do the same for you. Regardless of what has happened, He can bring you through it and give you a new song. Will it happen quickly or easily? No, we get through it in different ways, and at different rates. How did the Israelites get through the Red Sea? One step at a time! But when they got to the other side that body of water became the dividing line between their past and their future. But to get beyond your past you must forgive, and keep on forgiving until the past loses its hold over you. You must rise up and declare by faith that the power those old issues had over you is broken. Jesus promised that when His word on the issue becomes your word on it, your circumstances will begin to change (See Mk 11:23-26). So make God’s Word—the final word! But look out, old memories will try to negotiate another deal to see if you’re serious about moving on. Paul writes: “Reckon yourselves to be dead” (Ro 6:11 NKJV). Now, death alone doesn’t bring closure; you need burial. So establish a time, a place, and an epitaph that reads, “The past ends right here!” Tell Pharaoh, “Your hosts and your ghosts can’t hurt me anymore,” and move on!
FATHER'S DAY IS JUNE 19.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Hold steady and let God work
“Our light affliction…is working for us.” 2Co 4:17 NKJV
There are times in life when everything you attempt to do will seem to go wrong. Your faith may be strong and your commitment deep, yet adversity will come knocking on your door. In such times, the power of prayer will strengthen and stabilize you. But you can’t pray away life’s seasons! God has a purpose for not allowing you to be fruitful all the time. Real growth requires seasons of struggle as well as seasons of success. Your seasons of struggle destroy pride in your own ability, increase your dependence on God, and cause you to say like Paul, “Not that we are sufficient of ourselves…our sufficiency is from God” (2Co 3:5 NKJV). These are humbling experiences, but you need them. Your life is like a tree: in winter it silently refurbishes its strength, preparing for the next season of fruitfulness. As you look back on your life’s accomplishments you’ll notice that they are seasonal. There are seasons of rain as well as sunshine, and each season serves an important purpose. That’s why it’s a mistake to make a permanent decision based on a temporary circumstance or changing emotion. “The things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2Co 4:18). The word temporal means “subject to change.” Hold steady, it’s not always going to be this way! Sometimes the situation doesn’t call for action, it calls for patience and trust in God. Paul writes: “Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us.” In ways you cannot understand, God is making the circumstances you’re in today work for your good.
There are times in life when everything you attempt to do will seem to go wrong. Your faith may be strong and your commitment deep, yet adversity will come knocking on your door. In such times, the power of prayer will strengthen and stabilize you. But you can’t pray away life’s seasons! God has a purpose for not allowing you to be fruitful all the time. Real growth requires seasons of struggle as well as seasons of success. Your seasons of struggle destroy pride in your own ability, increase your dependence on God, and cause you to say like Paul, “Not that we are sufficient of ourselves…our sufficiency is from God” (2Co 3:5 NKJV). These are humbling experiences, but you need them. Your life is like a tree: in winter it silently refurbishes its strength, preparing for the next season of fruitfulness. As you look back on your life’s accomplishments you’ll notice that they are seasonal. There are seasons of rain as well as sunshine, and each season serves an important purpose. That’s why it’s a mistake to make a permanent decision based on a temporary circumstance or changing emotion. “The things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal” (2Co 4:18). The word temporal means “subject to change.” Hold steady, it’s not always going to be this way! Sometimes the situation doesn’t call for action, it calls for patience and trust in God. Paul writes: “Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us.” In ways you cannot understand, God is making the circumstances you’re in today work for your good.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Looking forward to better days
“I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord.” Ps 27:13 NIV
When a player begins to score, the opposing team assigns their best players to block him. So the attack you’re experiencing right now could be an indication of your value to God. Paul wrote: “I’ve had to…struggle with friends, struggle with foes. I’ve been at risk in the city, at risk in the country, endangered by desert sun and sea storm, and betrayed by those I thought were my brothers. I’ve known drudgery and hard labor, many a long and lonely night without sleep, many a missed meal, blasted by the cold, naked to the weather. And that’s not the half of it, when you throw in the daily pressures and anxieties of all the churches” (2Co 11:26-28 TM). How did Paul handle these experiences? He tells us: “Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead” (Php 3:13 NLT). Now, Paul didn’t forget any of it; he could remember names, places, faces, and even record it. But here’s the difference: he refused to let what was done to him affect his outlook. That’s the attitude you need! When your desire to go forward becomes greater than the memories of your past, you’ll begin to live again. “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Pr 29:18). Until you have a vision of tomorrow, you’ll live in yesterday’s struggles. The very fact that God is putting desire back into your spirit means—better days are coming! So rise up and say with the Psalmist, “I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”
When a player begins to score, the opposing team assigns their best players to block him. So the attack you’re experiencing right now could be an indication of your value to God. Paul wrote: “I’ve had to…struggle with friends, struggle with foes. I’ve been at risk in the city, at risk in the country, endangered by desert sun and sea storm, and betrayed by those I thought were my brothers. I’ve known drudgery and hard labor, many a long and lonely night without sleep, many a missed meal, blasted by the cold, naked to the weather. And that’s not the half of it, when you throw in the daily pressures and anxieties of all the churches” (2Co 11:26-28 TM). How did Paul handle these experiences? He tells us: “Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead” (Php 3:13 NLT). Now, Paul didn’t forget any of it; he could remember names, places, faces, and even record it. But here’s the difference: he refused to let what was done to him affect his outlook. That’s the attitude you need! When your desire to go forward becomes greater than the memories of your past, you’ll begin to live again. “Where there is no vision, the people perish” (Pr 29:18). Until you have a vision of tomorrow, you’ll live in yesterday’s struggles. The very fact that God is putting desire back into your spirit means—better days are coming! So rise up and say with the Psalmist, “I am still confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”
Monday, June 27, 2011
Don’t worry, you will have enough!
“My God shall supply all your need.” Php 4:19
Are you afraid you won’t have enough to meet your needs? Let’s read the story of the feeding of the five thousand and observe three things about the disciples: (1) They tried to escape the problem. They told Jesus, “Send them away, that they may go…and buy themselves bread” (Mk 6:36 NKJV). But He said no. Jesus understood that you grow by dealing with problems, not avoiding them. Your faith increases only when you place a demand on it. Lazy, inactive faith will fail you in the hour of need, so you must feed on God’s Word and exercise your faith regularly. (2) They thought what they had wasn’t enough. “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?” (Jn 6:9 NKJV). God will ask you to look at what you’ve got because even though it doesn’t look like much, when you factor Him in, it’ll be more than enough to meet the need. In the disciples’ hands it was just lunch for one, but in Christ’s hands it became dinner for five thousand. So put what you have into God’s hands and let Him work. (3) Only when they obeyed His plan was their need met. When you ask God for a miracle He will often give you a plan with a set of instructions. At that point your obedience sets the timer, activates the plan and determines the results. With God, there’s no lack and no limit. When it was over, “They took up twelve baskets full of fragments and of the fish” (Mk 6:43 NKJV). Don’t worry, you will have enough!
Are you afraid you won’t have enough to meet your needs? Let’s read the story of the feeding of the five thousand and observe three things about the disciples: (1) They tried to escape the problem. They told Jesus, “Send them away, that they may go…and buy themselves bread” (Mk 6:36 NKJV). But He said no. Jesus understood that you grow by dealing with problems, not avoiding them. Your faith increases only when you place a demand on it. Lazy, inactive faith will fail you in the hour of need, so you must feed on God’s Word and exercise your faith regularly. (2) They thought what they had wasn’t enough. “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two small fish, but what are they among so many?” (Jn 6:9 NKJV). God will ask you to look at what you’ve got because even though it doesn’t look like much, when you factor Him in, it’ll be more than enough to meet the need. In the disciples’ hands it was just lunch for one, but in Christ’s hands it became dinner for five thousand. So put what you have into God’s hands and let Him work. (3) Only when they obeyed His plan was their need met. When you ask God for a miracle He will often give you a plan with a set of instructions. At that point your obedience sets the timer, activates the plan and determines the results. With God, there’s no lack and no limit. When it was over, “They took up twelve baskets full of fragments and of the fish” (Mk 6:43 NKJV). Don’t worry, you will have enough!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Knowing where you stand with God
“But Christ gave himself…one sacrifice for all time.” Heb 10:12 TLB
Notice how God dealt with sin in the Old Testament. The priest took a lamb, shed its blood and offered it on the altar. As the sacrificial smoke went up, the priest would sprinkle the ashes on the ground, then stand on them. At that moment the person’s sin was atoned for and their guilt removed. What a beautiful picture of your salvation! At Calvary, the fires of God’s wrath were fully expended on Christ. In that moment, He was both your High Priest and your sacrificial lamb. When He cried, “It is finished” (Jn 19:30 NIV), your sins were paid for—from the cradle to the grave. And the minute you trust in Christ as your Savior, your standing before God is altered; you are “made righteous” (See 2Co 5:21). In the early days of the American West one of the greatest fears the wagon train masters had was prairie fires. The hot sun could start them, and before you knew it you were engulfed in flames. But a wise wagon train master would immediately give the order to back up the horses and wagons onto the ground that had already been burned. Why? Because the fire could not come where the fire had already been! Charles Wesley wrote: “Payment God will not twice demand; first at my bleeding surety’s hand, and then again at mine.” Jesus “took the heat” for every one of us. “He…bore our sins in his body on the tree” (1Pe 2:24 NIV). So today, if the Devil is beating you up because of your faults and failures, tell him, “I may not be perfect, but I’m redeemed, loved and accepted by God!”
Notice how God dealt with sin in the Old Testament. The priest took a lamb, shed its blood and offered it on the altar. As the sacrificial smoke went up, the priest would sprinkle the ashes on the ground, then stand on them. At that moment the person’s sin was atoned for and their guilt removed. What a beautiful picture of your salvation! At Calvary, the fires of God’s wrath were fully expended on Christ. In that moment, He was both your High Priest and your sacrificial lamb. When He cried, “It is finished” (Jn 19:30 NIV), your sins were paid for—from the cradle to the grave. And the minute you trust in Christ as your Savior, your standing before God is altered; you are “made righteous” (See 2Co 5:21). In the early days of the American West one of the greatest fears the wagon train masters had was prairie fires. The hot sun could start them, and before you knew it you were engulfed in flames. But a wise wagon train master would immediately give the order to back up the horses and wagons onto the ground that had already been burned. Why? Because the fire could not come where the fire had already been! Charles Wesley wrote: “Payment God will not twice demand; first at my bleeding surety’s hand, and then again at mine.” Jesus “took the heat” for every one of us. “He…bore our sins in his body on the tree” (1Pe 2:24 NIV). So today, if the Devil is beating you up because of your faults and failures, tell him, “I may not be perfect, but I’m redeemed, loved and accepted by God!”
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Give your marriage a tune-up!
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted.” Eph 4:32 NKJV
The secret to closeness in marriage is not sparkling conversation or shared interests or incredible sex. As good as those are, the secret is practicing plain, old-fashioned thoughtfulness and kindness. It’s the stuff we learn when we’re young and forget when we’re too busy: things like respect, sensitivity, attentiveness and caring. If your marriage needs a tune-up, start doing these four things: (1) Practice “hug therapy.” When you’re at odds with each other, remember this: “Hearts may agree though heads differ.” A hug works wonders. When we touch one another in caring ways our bodies actually produce chemicals which calm us emotionally and help us to bond physically. God designed us that way. Pretty clever, eh? (2) Don’t forget the small stuff. When you routinely build little kindnesses into your marriage they become a source of strength later; it’s like money in the bank you can draw on. So think “personal” and “sweet,” like helping to clean up after dinner, making the bed, walking the dog or taking out the trash. (3) Mind your manners. Just because you’re married doesn’t mean common courtesy should go by the wayside. The Bible says: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted.” That means listening without interrupting, and practicing the basics like saying “Please,” “Thank you,” and “I’m sorry.” This stuff’s not rocket science, but it works! (4) Compliment each other. Your marriage partner is not a mind reader. Whenever you think something nice about them, tell them! We live in a cold, competitive world, and hearing that we’re loved, smart, attractive and fun from someone whose opinion we really value, means everything.
The secret to closeness in marriage is not sparkling conversation or shared interests or incredible sex. As good as those are, the secret is practicing plain, old-fashioned thoughtfulness and kindness. It’s the stuff we learn when we’re young and forget when we’re too busy: things like respect, sensitivity, attentiveness and caring. If your marriage needs a tune-up, start doing these four things: (1) Practice “hug therapy.” When you’re at odds with each other, remember this: “Hearts may agree though heads differ.” A hug works wonders. When we touch one another in caring ways our bodies actually produce chemicals which calm us emotionally and help us to bond physically. God designed us that way. Pretty clever, eh? (2) Don’t forget the small stuff. When you routinely build little kindnesses into your marriage they become a source of strength later; it’s like money in the bank you can draw on. So think “personal” and “sweet,” like helping to clean up after dinner, making the bed, walking the dog or taking out the trash. (3) Mind your manners. Just because you’re married doesn’t mean common courtesy should go by the wayside. The Bible says: “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted.” That means listening without interrupting, and practicing the basics like saying “Please,” “Thank you,” and “I’m sorry.” This stuff’s not rocket science, but it works! (4) Compliment each other. Your marriage partner is not a mind reader. Whenever you think something nice about them, tell them! We live in a cold, competitive world, and hearing that we’re loved, smart, attractive and fun from someone whose opinion we really value, means everything.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Protect yourself spiritually
“He will…oppress the…people of the Most High.” Da 7:25 NLT
Satan uses these two strategies: (1) “He will defy the Most High.” Satan will always attack God’s plan, God’s principles and God’s people, so be on guard! (2) “He will…oppress the…people of the Most High.” Weariness is a weapon Satan will use against you. When you’re worn out, you’re vulnerable. At that point temptation can lead to compromise, compromise to indulgence, and indulgence to defeat. “Make no provision for the flesh” (Ro 13:14 NKJV). Don’t give Satan an inch or he will take a mile. Your mind is where the real attack takes place. The Bible warns you to be careful, “Lest you become weary and faint in your mind” (See Heb 12:3). Satan will wear you down in order to wipe you out, so you must take time to replenish your strength in God’s presence. It’s easy to get caught up in the work of the Lord, and not spend time with the Lord of the work. Jesus said: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it…I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live” (Mt 11:28-30 TM). When you commit yourself to doing God’s will, God’s way, in God’s strength, you don’t wear out. You’re fulfilled, you stay in balance, and you overcome the stress and anxiety of this world. And that’s how God wants you to live.
Satan uses these two strategies: (1) “He will defy the Most High.” Satan will always attack God’s plan, God’s principles and God’s people, so be on guard! (2) “He will…oppress the…people of the Most High.” Weariness is a weapon Satan will use against you. When you’re worn out, you’re vulnerable. At that point temptation can lead to compromise, compromise to indulgence, and indulgence to defeat. “Make no provision for the flesh” (Ro 13:14 NKJV). Don’t give Satan an inch or he will take a mile. Your mind is where the real attack takes place. The Bible warns you to be careful, “Lest you become weary and faint in your mind” (See Heb 12:3). Satan will wear you down in order to wipe you out, so you must take time to replenish your strength in God’s presence. It’s easy to get caught up in the work of the Lord, and not spend time with the Lord of the work. Jesus said: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it…I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live” (Mt 11:28-30 TM). When you commit yourself to doing God’s will, God’s way, in God’s strength, you don’t wear out. You’re fulfilled, you stay in balance, and you overcome the stress and anxiety of this world. And that’s how God wants you to live.
Friday, June 17, 2011
For things to go well
"That it might go well with [you]." Dt 5:29 NIV
When God tells you to do something that seems difficult or unpleasant, He's not trying to make your life hard or put you in a straitjacket. Often He's just getting you to a place where He can bless you. "Oh, that...[they]...would...fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them." Anything God asks you to do carries this thought with it: "That it might go well with [you]." Hopefully, that will help you to start looking at things differently. Living in peace, instead of always going to pieces, is easier when you learn to respond to God immediately. Don't hesitate. Don't negotiate. Don't rationalize. And whatever you do, don't run. The only thing that's worse than running away from God, is living with the painful aftermath. Your disobedience can take you all the way to the bottom. If you doubt that, stop and read the story of Jonah. The prophet Samuel said: "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1Sa 15:22). The truth is, sometimes you'll have to sacrifice certain things in order to obey God. But it's better to do that than to ignore His voice, live stressed out, forfeit His blessing, and end up getting nowhere. Sometimes God will require things of you that: (1) He doesn't seem to require of others; (2) He won't explain, and you can't understand; (3) when you've obeyed, you won't immediately see the benefits. But if you're convinced that He loves you and has a plan for your life, you'll surrender to Him in trust, knowing that in the end it will "go well with [you]."
When God tells you to do something that seems difficult or unpleasant, He's not trying to make your life hard or put you in a straitjacket. Often He's just getting you to a place where He can bless you. "Oh, that...[they]...would...fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them." Anything God asks you to do carries this thought with it: "That it might go well with [you]." Hopefully, that will help you to start looking at things differently. Living in peace, instead of always going to pieces, is easier when you learn to respond to God immediately. Don't hesitate. Don't negotiate. Don't rationalize. And whatever you do, don't run. The only thing that's worse than running away from God, is living with the painful aftermath. Your disobedience can take you all the way to the bottom. If you doubt that, stop and read the story of Jonah. The prophet Samuel said: "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1Sa 15:22). The truth is, sometimes you'll have to sacrifice certain things in order to obey God. But it's better to do that than to ignore His voice, live stressed out, forfeit His blessing, and end up getting nowhere. Sometimes God will require things of you that: (1) He doesn't seem to require of others; (2) He won't explain, and you can't understand; (3) when you've obeyed, you won't immediately see the benefits. But if you're convinced that He loves you and has a plan for your life, you'll surrender to Him in trust, knowing that in the end it will "go well with [you]."
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
For things to go well
"That it might go well with [you]." Dt 5:29 NIV
When God tells you to do something that seems difficult or unpleasant, He's not trying to make your life hard or put you in a straitjacket. Often He's just getting you to a place where He can bless you. "Oh, that...[they]...would...fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them." Anything God asks you to do carries this thought with it: "That it might go well with [you]." Hopefully, that will help you to start looking at things differently. Living in peace, instead of always going to pieces, is easier when you learn to respond to God immediately. Don't hesitate. Don't negotiate. Don't rationalize. And whatever you do, don't run. The only thing that's worse than running away from God, is living with the painful aftermath. Your disobedience can take you all the way to the bottom. If you doubt that, stop and read the story of Jonah. The prophet Samuel said: "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1Sa 15:22). The truth is, sometimes you'll have to sacrifice certain things in order to obey God. But it's better to do that than to ignore His voice, live stressed out, forfeit His blessing, and end up getting nowhere. Sometimes God will require things of you that: (1) He doesn't seem to require of others; (2) He won't explain, and you can't understand; (3) when you've obeyed, you won't immediately see the benefits. But if you're convinced that He loves you and has a plan for your life, you'll surrender to Him in trust, knowing that in the end it will "go well with [you]."
When God tells you to do something that seems difficult or unpleasant, He's not trying to make your life hard or put you in a straitjacket. Often He's just getting you to a place where He can bless you. "Oh, that...[they]...would...fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them." Anything God asks you to do carries this thought with it: "That it might go well with [you]." Hopefully, that will help you to start looking at things differently. Living in peace, instead of always going to pieces, is easier when you learn to respond to God immediately. Don't hesitate. Don't negotiate. Don't rationalize. And whatever you do, don't run. The only thing that's worse than running away from God, is living with the painful aftermath. Your disobedience can take you all the way to the bottom. If you doubt that, stop and read the story of Jonah. The prophet Samuel said: "To obey is better than sacrifice" (1Sa 15:22). The truth is, sometimes you'll have to sacrifice certain things in order to obey God. But it's better to do that than to ignore His voice, live stressed out, forfeit His blessing, and end up getting nowhere. Sometimes God will require things of you that: (1) He doesn't seem to require of others; (2) He won't explain, and you can't understand; (3) when you've obeyed, you won't immediately see the benefits. But if you're convinced that He loves you and has a plan for your life, you'll surrender to Him in trust, knowing that in the end it will "go well with [you]."
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
God says, "Wait"
"[Your] steps...are ordered by the Lord." Ps 37:23
What should you do when doors you thought God had opened suddenly slam shut? Now you're thinking, "Lord, I did all the right things. How come this is happening?" Be at peace, God is still directing your steps. When your hopes seem crushed and your plans altered, rely on His superior wisdom and unfailing love. God has already planned your life from beginning to end, so trust Him to work things out for your good (See Isa 46:10-11). If you give it a little more time, your pain will turn to praise as you realize that He just closed a lesser door to open a greater one. Timing is so important! As you begin to understand God's timing you'll be better able to cooperate with Him. When you don't know, learn to wait with confidence on the One who does. The problem most of us have is that we attempt to take the lead role in our relationship with God and it doesn't work. God has that role, and He won't give it to us! He gives instructions and we're supposed to follow, even when we don't like or understand the way He takes us. "Why does it take God so long to do things?" you ask. Because unanswered questions create trust. When you don't know, you have to trust the One who does, and that keeps you growing in faith. God has a definite plan and time, and while He's getting you ready He keeps you in His waiting room. If that's where you are today, remember, it's only as you reach new levels of maturity that God releases new levels of blessing into your life.
What should you do when doors you thought God had opened suddenly slam shut? Now you're thinking, "Lord, I did all the right things. How come this is happening?" Be at peace, God is still directing your steps. When your hopes seem crushed and your plans altered, rely on His superior wisdom and unfailing love. God has already planned your life from beginning to end, so trust Him to work things out for your good (See Isa 46:10-11). If you give it a little more time, your pain will turn to praise as you realize that He just closed a lesser door to open a greater one. Timing is so important! As you begin to understand God's timing you'll be better able to cooperate with Him. When you don't know, learn to wait with confidence on the One who does. The problem most of us have is that we attempt to take the lead role in our relationship with God and it doesn't work. God has that role, and He won't give it to us! He gives instructions and we're supposed to follow, even when we don't like or understand the way He takes us. "Why does it take God so long to do things?" you ask. Because unanswered questions create trust. When you don't know, you have to trust the One who does, and that keeps you growing in faith. God has a definite plan and time, and while He's getting you ready He keeps you in His waiting room. If that's where you are today, remember, it's only as you reach new levels of maturity that God releases new levels of blessing into your life.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Limping
"The hollow of Jacob's thigh was out of joint." Ge 32:25
God has people like Jacob who, spiritually speaking, walk with a limp. After years of wrestling with stubborn issues, they've been radically changed by God's power; now they're able to minister to those they couldn't have reached before. God also has people like Paul, who said: "There was given me a thorn in my flesh...to torment me" (2Co 12:7 NIV). When Paul asked God to remove this thorn, God said: "[No,] My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (2Co 12:10 NKJV). No doubt, that's the last thing Paul wanted to hear. Understand this: God loves to use people who walk with a limp, or who are locked into thorny situations they can't escape. Why? Because when they're blessed they don't become arrogant like some who think they deserve it. They're a little warmer, and a little more willing to reach out and embrace others. Today God is looking for people with enough compassion to ask, "How are you?" then stop long enough to listen to the answer! When people have been hurt they need extra love and attention. They need to be held a little closer and prayed over a little longer. After all, that's what God did for you; now it's your turn to do it for somebody else. And yes, you'll have to be patient and overcome their reluctance to trust you. Because they feel betrayed and "used" they struggle with doubts and resentments. But don't give up on them: "Love never fails" (1Co 13:8 NKJV). If you keep loving them, God will use you to bring them healing and hope.
God has people like Jacob who, spiritually speaking, walk with a limp. After years of wrestling with stubborn issues, they've been radically changed by God's power; now they're able to minister to those they couldn't have reached before. God also has people like Paul, who said: "There was given me a thorn in my flesh...to torment me" (2Co 12:7 NIV). When Paul asked God to remove this thorn, God said: "[No,] My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (2Co 12:10 NKJV). No doubt, that's the last thing Paul wanted to hear. Understand this: God loves to use people who walk with a limp, or who are locked into thorny situations they can't escape. Why? Because when they're blessed they don't become arrogant like some who think they deserve it. They're a little warmer, and a little more willing to reach out and embrace others. Today God is looking for people with enough compassion to ask, "How are you?" then stop long enough to listen to the answer! When people have been hurt they need extra love and attention. They need to be held a little closer and prayed over a little longer. After all, that's what God did for you; now it's your turn to do it for somebody else. And yes, you'll have to be patient and overcome their reluctance to trust you. Because they feel betrayed and "used" they struggle with doubts and resentments. But don't give up on them: "Love never fails" (1Co 13:8 NKJV). If you keep loving them, God will use you to bring them healing and hope.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Knowing your spiritual gifts
"All these are the work of...the same Spirit." 1Co 12:11 NIV
After listing various spiritual gifts, Paul writes: "All these are the work of...the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines." You say, "How do I know what my spiritual gift is?" One Bible teacher answers: "If I walk, live, and am filled with the Spirit, it is not too important for me to understand the definition of my gift. It isn't an academic issue; it's a matter of getting down on your knees and asking the Spirit of God to dominate and control your life. As you yield to Him, the Spirit of God operates through you, and that will be your area of ministry. So the best way to know your gifted area is not to figure it out and then do it, but to walk in the Spirit and then look back and say, 'So that's what I do.' When I was in high school a lady wanted to paint my portrait. I remember that she had a palette in her hand. On the palette she had some primary colors which she squirted out of some tubes. Then she began to mix all those colors together. It was amazing to see the various combinations that came out of those primary colors. Finally she began to paint them on the canvas. This is exactly how spiritual gifts function. The Holy Spirit has a palette. On it are some primary gifts. They are the gifts listed in Scripture. But by the time they are squeezed around there is a mixture. Each one becomes a very unique portrait."
After listing various spiritual gifts, Paul writes: "All these are the work of...the same Spirit, and he gives them to each one, just as he determines." You say, "How do I know what my spiritual gift is?" One Bible teacher answers: "If I walk, live, and am filled with the Spirit, it is not too important for me to understand the definition of my gift. It isn't an academic issue; it's a matter of getting down on your knees and asking the Spirit of God to dominate and control your life. As you yield to Him, the Spirit of God operates through you, and that will be your area of ministry. So the best way to know your gifted area is not to figure it out and then do it, but to walk in the Spirit and then look back and say, 'So that's what I do.' When I was in high school a lady wanted to paint my portrait. I remember that she had a palette in her hand. On the palette she had some primary colors which she squirted out of some tubes. Then she began to mix all those colors together. It was amazing to see the various combinations that came out of those primary colors. Finally she began to paint them on the canvas. This is exactly how spiritual gifts function. The Holy Spirit has a palette. On it are some primary gifts. They are the gifts listed in Scripture. But by the time they are squeezed around there is a mixture. Each one becomes a very unique portrait."
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Pour out your heart in worship
"She poured it on Jesus' feet." Jn 12:3 NIV
The Bible says: "Mary took...expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But one of his disciples...objected, 'Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor?'" (Jn 12:3-5 NIV). When it came to worship, Mary "let down her hair" and filled the house with the fragrance of her praise. And Jesus accepted it! There's a lesson here. Put aside your preconceived notions, your self-consciousness and concern over what others think, and pour out your heart in worship. Join the Psalmist: "My lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands" (Ps 63:3-4 NIV). When people try to intimidate and silence you, don't let them. When they tried it with Jesus, He rebuked them and said: "If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out" (Lk 19:40 NIV). You can never worship God too exuberantly, for God knows, even if your critics don't, that the rocks will cry out. Nothing builds intimacy like words of love and appreciation. There will always be a Judas around who'll say, "What a waste!" When you take time to stand and bathe your soul in the presence of God, they will say, "What a waste of time; what a waste of effort." That's because they don't understand two things: (1) What God saved and delivered you from. (2) That worship is how you enter, how you enjoy, and how you thrive in the presence of God.
The Bible says: "Mary took...expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. But one of his disciples...objected, 'Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor?'" (Jn 12:3-5 NIV). When it came to worship, Mary "let down her hair" and filled the house with the fragrance of her praise. And Jesus accepted it! There's a lesson here. Put aside your preconceived notions, your self-consciousness and concern over what others think, and pour out your heart in worship. Join the Psalmist: "My lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands" (Ps 63:3-4 NIV). When people try to intimidate and silence you, don't let them. When they tried it with Jesus, He rebuked them and said: "If they keep quiet, the stones will cry out" (Lk 19:40 NIV). You can never worship God too exuberantly, for God knows, even if your critics don't, that the rocks will cry out. Nothing builds intimacy like words of love and appreciation. There will always be a Judas around who'll say, "What a waste!" When you take time to stand and bathe your soul in the presence of God, they will say, "What a waste of time; what a waste of effort." That's because they don't understand two things: (1) What God saved and delivered you from. (2) That worship is how you enter, how you enjoy, and how you thrive in the presence of God.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Don't Be Afraid, Put God First
"I have commanded a widow...to provide for you." 1Ki 17:9 NKJV
When famine hit Israel, God said to the prophet Elijah, "Go to Zarephath...I have commanded a widow there to provide for you." Observe three things in this story: (1) When the need arises, your provision will be in place. That's how God works, so ask Him to tell you where to go and what to do. And when He does, get moving! (2) The people God uses will surprise you. Sometimes they're people you would tend to overlook. This penniless widow had "only a handful of flour...and a little oil" (1Ki 17:12 NKJV). That's no problem to God. He doesn't need much to start with in order to do something great, just a willing heart. Why didn't God send Elijah to a wealthy family? Because they didn't need a miracle, she did. When God's work has a need He looks for someone with a seed, stretches their faith, and both the giver and God's work are blessed. (3) Your "bad time" is often God's opportune moment. This miracle took place in the middle of an economic depression. What seems like the worst possible time for you, is when God loves to move. This woman was only one meal away from death; it doesn't get much worse. "So, she went away and did according to the word of Elijah...she and...her household ate for many days. The bin of flour was not used up, nor did the jar of oil run dry" (1Ki 17:15-16 NKJV). The key to her miracle is found in Elijah's words: "Do not fear...but make me a small cake from it first" (1Ki 17:13 NKJV). The Word for you today is don't be afraid; put God first and He will meet your need.
When famine hit Israel, God said to the prophet Elijah, "Go to Zarephath...I have commanded a widow there to provide for you." Observe three things in this story: (1) When the need arises, your provision will be in place. That's how God works, so ask Him to tell you where to go and what to do. And when He does, get moving! (2) The people God uses will surprise you. Sometimes they're people you would tend to overlook. This penniless widow had "only a handful of flour...and a little oil" (1Ki 17:12 NKJV). That's no problem to God. He doesn't need much to start with in order to do something great, just a willing heart. Why didn't God send Elijah to a wealthy family? Because they didn't need a miracle, she did. When God's work has a need He looks for someone with a seed, stretches their faith, and both the giver and God's work are blessed. (3) Your "bad time" is often God's opportune moment. This miracle took place in the middle of an economic depression. What seems like the worst possible time for you, is when God loves to move. This woman was only one meal away from death; it doesn't get much worse. "So, she went away and did according to the word of Elijah...she and...her household ate for many days. The bin of flour was not used up, nor did the jar of oil run dry" (1Ki 17:15-16 NKJV). The key to her miracle is found in Elijah's words: "Do not fear...but make me a small cake from it first" (1Ki 17:13 NKJV). The Word for you today is don't be afraid; put God first and He will meet your need.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Your best days are still ahead
"Do not call me Naomi; call me Mara." Ru 1:20 NKJV
Learn to build your life around your person, not your role, otherwise when your role changes you'll lose your sense of worth. Being a good mother is a noble calling. It's also a self-sacrificing job. But when your children leave home and those demands are over, it's easy to feel like Naomi. Her name meant "my joy." But after her two sons died she changed her name to Mara, which means "bitterness." Don't allow changing times to change who you are, or to make you stop dreaming and give up hope. God still had a lot for Naomi to do. In the future she would mentor Ruth, who would give birth to a son who was destined to grow up and become part of the lineage of King David and our blessed Lord. What an honor! When your role changes, remember that your life's not over. See your own worth as a person, discover your next assignment, gather up your assets and keep on living and giving. Don't develop a "Mara mentality." She allowed herself to become cynical when her circumstances changed; don't let that happen to you! Discouragement often comes when we feel like we've seen it all, heard it all, done it all, and most of it was bad. No matter how old you are, you can never say you've seen it all. God can do "exceeding abundantly above all that [you] ask or think" (Eph 3:20). You don't know what God will do with your life before it's over, but He has a way of saving the best for the last.
Learn to build your life around your person, not your role, otherwise when your role changes you'll lose your sense of worth. Being a good mother is a noble calling. It's also a self-sacrificing job. But when your children leave home and those demands are over, it's easy to feel like Naomi. Her name meant "my joy." But after her two sons died she changed her name to Mara, which means "bitterness." Don't allow changing times to change who you are, or to make you stop dreaming and give up hope. God still had a lot for Naomi to do. In the future she would mentor Ruth, who would give birth to a son who was destined to grow up and become part of the lineage of King David and our blessed Lord. What an honor! When your role changes, remember that your life's not over. See your own worth as a person, discover your next assignment, gather up your assets and keep on living and giving. Don't develop a "Mara mentality." She allowed herself to become cynical when her circumstances changed; don't let that happen to you! Discouragement often comes when we feel like we've seen it all, heard it all, done it all, and most of it was bad. No matter how old you are, you can never say you've seen it all. God can do "exceeding abundantly above all that [you] ask or think" (Eph 3:20). You don't know what God will do with your life before it's over, but He has a way of saving the best for the last.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Bring out the best in others (2)
"Be strong and of good courage." Dt 31:6 NKJV
Your words and attitudes have a powerful effect on other people. The woman caught in adultery is a case in point (See Jn 8 NIV). Observe how the Pharisees handled her: "The Law [of] Moses commanded us to stone such women" (v.5). How different Jesus' attitude was! Looking at her with compassion, He said: "Neither do I condemn you...Go now and leave your life of sin" (v.11). Lifted, redeemed, empowered, you can't help but believe she spent the rest of her days trying to live up to Christ's view of her. The mandate to "encourage one another" and "build each other up" is woven throughout the New Testament. All of us need reassurance and appreciation. So why do we sometimes pocket the praise we should pass on to others, or sidestep the practical help we could offer to open the way for them to succeed? Sometimes it's simply because we're lazy, or selfish, or we fall into the habit of taking people for granted. Sometimes it's just easier to find fault. We underestimate the impact our words and attitudes can have on another person, or we assume our approval is obvious. Are we afraid our praise might be a stumbling block, causing pride in them? Jesus didn't fear that when He hailed Nathanael: "Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false" (Jn 1:47 NIV). What a compliment! The truth is, more people die of broken hearts than swelled heads. So today ask God for an opportunity to offer genuine praise to someone in your life. Ask Him to use you to come alongside them, and encourage them toward their goal.
Your words and attitudes have a powerful effect on other people. The woman caught in adultery is a case in point (See Jn 8 NIV). Observe how the Pharisees handled her: "The Law [of] Moses commanded us to stone such women" (v.5). How different Jesus' attitude was! Looking at her with compassion, He said: "Neither do I condemn you...Go now and leave your life of sin" (v.11). Lifted, redeemed, empowered, you can't help but believe she spent the rest of her days trying to live up to Christ's view of her. The mandate to "encourage one another" and "build each other up" is woven throughout the New Testament. All of us need reassurance and appreciation. So why do we sometimes pocket the praise we should pass on to others, or sidestep the practical help we could offer to open the way for them to succeed? Sometimes it's simply because we're lazy, or selfish, or we fall into the habit of taking people for granted. Sometimes it's just easier to find fault. We underestimate the impact our words and attitudes can have on another person, or we assume our approval is obvious. Are we afraid our praise might be a stumbling block, causing pride in them? Jesus didn't fear that when He hailed Nathanael: "Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false" (Jn 1:47 NIV). What a compliment! The truth is, more people die of broken hearts than swelled heads. So today ask God for an opportunity to offer genuine praise to someone in your life. Ask Him to use you to come alongside them, and encourage them toward their goal.
Friday, June 3, 2011
How to Avoid Burnout
“The bush burned…yet was not consumed.” Ex 3:2 AMP
Remember the story of the burning bush? It burned, but it didn’t burn out. Some folks who once burned for God, have burned out. Loyal workers in the church for years, then suddenly they vanish. Herbert J. Freudenberger, a psychologist, describes burnout as “fatigue brought about by devotion to a cause that failed to produce the expected reward.” So how can you avoid burnout? (1) Seek God’s input. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault” (Jas 1:5 NIV). God is an expert; consult Him. (2) Realign your priorities. Too many irons in the fire mean none of them gets adequate attention. Learn to say no. Your family will appreciate it, even if others don’t. (3) Practice the art of thanksgiving. Freudenberger says, “Get into the habit of noticing—and nurturing—the unspectacular good things that happen to you.” (4) Learn the art of physical relaxation. Take ten or twenty minutes at the end of the day to sit in a comfortable chair and enjoy a good stretch. Coax your body to relax. Imagine yourself basking on a warm beach. (5) Exercise. It’s one of the best antibiotics for burnout. But pick what works for you, not what stresses you. (6) Develop your own relief devices. Take a walk. Read a good book. (7) Find someone to share with. Shutting yourself off increases the problem rather than solving it. Find someone you trust to talk with.
Remember the story of the burning bush? It burned, but it didn’t burn out. Some folks who once burned for God, have burned out. Loyal workers in the church for years, then suddenly they vanish. Herbert J. Freudenberger, a psychologist, describes burnout as “fatigue brought about by devotion to a cause that failed to produce the expected reward.” So how can you avoid burnout? (1) Seek God’s input. “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault” (Jas 1:5 NIV). God is an expert; consult Him. (2) Realign your priorities. Too many irons in the fire mean none of them gets adequate attention. Learn to say no. Your family will appreciate it, even if others don’t. (3) Practice the art of thanksgiving. Freudenberger says, “Get into the habit of noticing—and nurturing—the unspectacular good things that happen to you.” (4) Learn the art of physical relaxation. Take ten or twenty minutes at the end of the day to sit in a comfortable chair and enjoy a good stretch. Coax your body to relax. Imagine yourself basking on a warm beach. (5) Exercise. It’s one of the best antibiotics for burnout. But pick what works for you, not what stresses you. (6) Develop your own relief devices. Take a walk. Read a good book. (7) Find someone to share with. Shutting yourself off increases the problem rather than solving it. Find someone you trust to talk with.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Bring out the best in others
"Be strong and of good courage." Dt 31:6 NKJV
In the musical My Fair Lady, Eliza Doolittle, a common flower girl, becomes an elegant lady who mixes with England's high society. How did it happen? Because Henry Higgins, the eminent linguistics professor, treated her like a lady-and she began living up to his expectations. Alan Loy McGinnis writes: "I was once waiting to speak at a sales conference where the year's awards were being given. One woman, who'd performed spectacularly and made an extraordinary amount of money, gave all the credit to her sales manager. As she stood before a crowd of three thousand people clutching the award for best producer of the year, she recalled the slump she'd been in for two years previously. The future looked so bleak that she was ready to resign, and had even called her supervisor several times to quit. But the manager kept persuading her that she hadn't tried long enough, that she would not have been hired if there had not been unusual potential in her. Her voice cracked as she related the story. Then she made this insightful remark: 'For all those months when I wanted to quit and didn't think I had any future, Joan believed in me more than I believed in myself. She wanted me to succeed even more than I did.'" One of the attributes of true Christian character is a willingness to encourage and lift people: "I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you" (Isa 41:13 NIV). So, in your dealings with others, are you problem-focused or possibility-focused?
In the musical My Fair Lady, Eliza Doolittle, a common flower girl, becomes an elegant lady who mixes with England's high society. How did it happen? Because Henry Higgins, the eminent linguistics professor, treated her like a lady-and she began living up to his expectations. Alan Loy McGinnis writes: "I was once waiting to speak at a sales conference where the year's awards were being given. One woman, who'd performed spectacularly and made an extraordinary amount of money, gave all the credit to her sales manager. As she stood before a crowd of three thousand people clutching the award for best producer of the year, she recalled the slump she'd been in for two years previously. The future looked so bleak that she was ready to resign, and had even called her supervisor several times to quit. But the manager kept persuading her that she hadn't tried long enough, that she would not have been hired if there had not been unusual potential in her. Her voice cracked as she related the story. Then she made this insightful remark: 'For all those months when I wanted to quit and didn't think I had any future, Joan believed in me more than I believed in myself. She wanted me to succeed even more than I did.'" One of the attributes of true Christian character is a willingness to encourage and lift people: "I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you" (Isa 41:13 NIV). So, in your dealings with others, are you problem-focused or possibility-focused?
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Living without Regret
“That I may finish my race with joy.” Ac 20:24 NKJV
Imagine your life is over and you’re standing in front of a big DVD player. God inserts a disc with your name on it labeled, “What might have been.” It details everything He wanted to accomplish through you: How He wanted to bless you financially, but you were afraid to sow into His kingdom and be generous with others. How He wanted to use your gifts, but you lacked the discipline to develop them and the courage to use them. How He gave you great relationships, but you weren’t truthful and loving enough to maintain them. How He longed to reproduce in you the character of Christ, but you refused to deal with your sin, resist temptation, and pursue spiritual growth. The poet said, “Of all the sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these—it might have been.” But there’s a bright side. As long as you’re still breathing, you can close the gap between what is and what can be. So stop and ask yourself, “What can I do now to live without regrets later?” Here’s what: Start renewing your mind each day with God’s Word instead of filling it with junk. Use your talents and your treasures to build His kingdom instead of your own. If you do, you’ll discover that God gives “seed to the sower” (2Co 9:10 NIV). The more seed you sow, the more seed God will give you. It’s not too late to become the person you might have been—if you’re willing to start today.
Imagine your life is over and you’re standing in front of a big DVD player. God inserts a disc with your name on it labeled, “What might have been.” It details everything He wanted to accomplish through you: How He wanted to bless you financially, but you were afraid to sow into His kingdom and be generous with others. How He wanted to use your gifts, but you lacked the discipline to develop them and the courage to use them. How He gave you great relationships, but you weren’t truthful and loving enough to maintain them. How He longed to reproduce in you the character of Christ, but you refused to deal with your sin, resist temptation, and pursue spiritual growth. The poet said, “Of all the sad words of tongue or pen, the saddest are these—it might have been.” But there’s a bright side. As long as you’re still breathing, you can close the gap between what is and what can be. So stop and ask yourself, “What can I do now to live without regrets later?” Here’s what: Start renewing your mind each day with God’s Word instead of filling it with junk. Use your talents and your treasures to build His kingdom instead of your own. If you do, you’ll discover that God gives “seed to the sower” (2Co 9:10 NIV). The more seed you sow, the more seed God will give you. It’s not too late to become the person you might have been—if you’re willing to start today.
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